Human-wildlife Conflict in Kitam Bird Sanctuary: Perceptions and Possible Solutions

摘要: Human-wildlife conflict (HWC) in the form of crop-raiding and attack by wild animals has become integral part for communities located at borders protected areas. Stratified-random sample 103 respondents 5 villages living Kitam Bird Sanctuary were interviewed to understand manage growing concerns. Most farmers suffered major financial losses annually due crop damage pigs ( Sus scrofa ), Indian peacock Pavo cristatus Barking deer Muntiacus muntjak Assamese macaque Macaca assamensis rabbit (Caprolagus hispidus), Crestless Porcupines Hystrix hodsoni Jungle fowl Gallus gallus ). A huge majority considered boar be most destructing animal among raiders significant adaptability this their surroundings. The only livestock mostly depredated was Goat its depredator, Common leopard Panthera pardus ) with an average loss 1.55 goats per house. Nonlethal methods such as guarding, constant vigilance during seasons, scarecrows, scaring away when seen, etc. are measures adopted protect fields.